Long Beach, Washington, a charming coastal town nestled on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, maritime history, and culinary delights. For visitors and locals alike, the town’s vibrant food scene is a major draw, boasting a diverse array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries that cater to every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to mouthwatering comfort food, Long Beach’s culinary landscape is a testament to the region’s bounty and the creativity of its chefs.
Discovering the best places to eat in Long Beach is an adventure in itself. Whether you’re craving a romantic dinner overlooking the ocean, a casual lunch with friends, or a family-friendly meal, this coastal gem has something to offer everyone. This guide will take you on a culinary journey through Long Beach, highlighting some of the most popular and noteworthy dining destinations, ensuring you have a memorable and delicious experience.
Seafood Sensations: Indulging in the Bounty of the Sea
Being a coastal town, Long Beach’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in its abundant seafood. Fresh catches of the day are a highlight, transformed into delectable dishes that showcase the ocean’s flavors.
Popular Seafood Restaurants
- The Breakers Restaurant & Bar: Known for its stunning ocean views and classic seafood dishes, The Breakers is a Long Beach institution.
- The Crab Shack: This casual eatery offers a laid-back atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh crab, shrimp, and fish.
- The Salty Dog Cafe: A local favorite, The Salty Dog Cafe serves up a variety of seafood dishes, from fish and chips to clam chowder, in a cozy and welcoming setting.
Must-Try Seafood Dishes
- Dungeness Crab Legs: A Long Beach specialty, Dungeness crab legs are a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Salmon Filet:** Grilled or pan-seared, salmon is a popular choice, often served with seasonal vegetables and a lemon butter sauce.
- Oysters on the Half Shell:** Freshly shucked oysters are a delicacy, best enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a splash of cocktail sauce.
Beyond Seafood: Exploring Long Beach’s Culinary Diversity
While seafood reigns supreme, Long Beach’s culinary scene extends far beyond the ocean’s bounty.
International Flavors
- Thai Orchid Restaurant:** Serving up authentic Thai cuisine, Thai Orchid offers a variety of curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes.
- El Patron Mexican Restaurant:** A popular spot for Mexican food, El Patron serves up classic dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
- Sakura Japanese Steakhouse:** Enjoy a hibachi-style dining experience at Sakura, where chefs prepare your meal right in front of you.
American Classics
Long Beach also offers a selection of American comfort food restaurants, perfect for a casual and satisfying meal. (See Also: Where to Eat in Alexandria Bay Ny? Waterfront Delights)
- The Pelican Cafe:** This cozy cafe serves up breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a focus on homemade comfort food.
- The Lighthouse Cafe:** Known for its burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes, The Lighthouse Cafe is a classic American diner experience.
- The Beachcomber:** This beachfront restaurant offers a casual atmosphere and a menu featuring American classics, seafood, and steaks.
Sweet Treats: Satisfying Your Dessert Cravings
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in some sweet treats. Long Beach has a variety of dessert options to satisfy your cravings.
Popular Dessert Spots
- The Sweet Spot:** This bakery offers a wide selection of cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and pies.
- The Ice Cream Parlor:** Beat the heat with a scoop (or two) of ice cream from this local favorite.
- The Coffee Beanery:** Enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry at this cozy coffee shop.
Where to Eat in Long Beach Wa?
Planning your meals in Long Beach can be an exciting part of your trip. To help you make the most of your culinary adventure, here’s a recap of the key points we’ve covered:
Seafood Delights
- Long Beach’s seafood scene is a must-try, with fresh catches of the day transformed into delicious dishes.
- Don’t miss out on Dungeness crab legs, salmon filet, and oysters on the half shell.
Culinary Diversity
- Beyond seafood, Long Beach offers a variety of international cuisines, including Thai, Mexican, and Japanese.
- For American comfort food, check out The Pelican Cafe, The Lighthouse Cafe, or The Beachcomber.
Sweet Treats
- Indulge your sweet tooth at The Sweet Spot, The Ice Cream Parlor, or The Coffee Beanery.
- These spots offer a variety of cakes, cookies, ice cream, and coffee to satisfy your cravings.
FAQs
What is the best seafood restaurant in Long Beach?
This is subjective, but The Breakers Restaurant & Bar is often praised for its stunning ocean views and classic seafood dishes. (See Also: Where to Eat in Dallas Texas? Top Local Favorites)
Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Long Beach?
Yes, many restaurants in Long Beach offer vegetarian and vegan options. Thai Orchid Restaurant, for example, has a good selection of vegetarian curries and stir-fries.
What is the price range for dining in Long Beach?
Long Beach offers a range of dining options to suit different budgets. You can find casual eateries with affordable prices, as well as upscale restaurants with higher price tags.
Is there live music in Long Beach?
Yes, some restaurants and bars in Long Beach feature live music, especially during the summer months. Check local listings for schedules and venues.
(See Also: Where to Eat in Rotorua? Culinary Delights Await)What is the best time to visit Long Beach for dining?
Long Beach is a popular destination year-round. However, the summer months (June-August) tend to be the busiest time for dining, so make reservations in advance if possible.